Read this.Feel human.

Life & Death & Giants by Ron Rindo

If you read nothing else from this post, do yourself a favor and read this book. It is a tribute to community, decency, respect, and caring for others. There is tragedy as well, but that is part of the reality of life. Reminded me a bit of A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving.

Civility is in short supply these days.

Amity by Nathan Harris

The story of an emancipated young man who sets out to find his sister in Mexican territory where she has been taken by their former owner. Wonderful characters, excellent writing, and a history lesson about America and Mexico in the post enslavement years.

The Good Liar by Denise Mina

I am a Mina fan and have enjoyed all of her books. This one is another twisty murder mystery involving police, a faulty crime analysis method, and untrustworthy officials. Set in London, the compelling story makes for a true page-turner..

Ruth by Kate Riley

This is a studied portrait of a woman living in a restrictive Christian community. I kept thinking she was going to rebel and break out from her repetitive and limited way of life, but she does not and that is the point. Is Ruth happy or contained? Good for book clubs.

Bug Hollow by Michelle Nuneven

This is the first book from Nuneven that I have read, but small town Southern California is her signature setting. This is a family tale- love, tragedy, secrets, regret-all relatable to the reader. Every family has some dysfunction,

the important thing is how we get through it.

A Case of Mice and Murder by Sally Smith

The first of the Gabriel Ward series, set in 1901 London with Ward as a barrister living in the Inner Temple ( Temple Church) and solving crimes. Ward is a bit of an odd duck, but endearing and the story is delightfully complicated. Can't wait for the next installment! I can see this as a streaming series.

Season of Death by Will Thomas

One of the Barker and Llewelyn series, they are private eyes in Victorian England investigating bombings, kidnapping, and deception. My first in the series, but fun reading and historically enlightening.

Indian Country by Shobha Rao

Disoriented by an abruptly arranged marriage in India and an equally sudden move to Montana, this young couple tries to navigate an unwelcoming country that can be complicated to understand. Factor in unscrupulous bosses and a criminal local sheriff and you get a story that builds steady momentum.

The Understudy by Morgan Richter

Kit is in NYC to finally be the star of an opera. But her understudy, Yolanda, wants the part for herself; so she tries to kill Kit. Artists are so dramatic!

There is a bit of Anna Delvey in Yolanda and Kit sniffs it out. Let the games begin!

Hot Air by Marcy Dermansky- I do not like to give bad reviews but this was a stinker!